Contact Contact

RTA begins zoning code projects in Cicero, Riverside

September 15, 2020

Connections Zoning Code Projects

The Regional Transportation Authority (RTA) has begun work with the communities of Cicero and Riverside to support zoning code updates through the agency’s Community Planning program.

The projects will seek to help both communities align their regulations with established planning goals to increase transit-oriented development (TOD), walkability, and access to transit.

Cicero Zoning Update
In Cicero, the RTA will support development of a Unifed Development Code to align with the comprehensive plan adopted in 2017 and the Cicero Connections Transportation Plan, completed in 2014 and in partnership with the RTA.

The updated code will guide future development and help preserve the integrity of traditional neighborhoods, encourage infill and redevelopment where needed, protect existing mixed-use districts, support modern TOD practices, strengthen commercial corridors, and realize the best use potential for existing manufacturing districts.

"The creation of this unified development code will help to protect and build around Cicero's best assets, such as the transportation system, while creating modern guidelines for developing the Town's opportunity areas,” said Craig Pesek, Project Manager for the Town of Cicero.

The RTA will fund 90 percent of the roughly $100,000 project cost, with the rest covered by the Town of Cicero.

"We are very excited to have received this assistance from the RTA. I am committed to Cicero being a business-friendly community and this zoning update will continue to do just that," said Town President Larry Dominick.

Riverside Zoning Update
The RTA is working with the Village of Riverside to develop new TOD zoning code regulations for multiple locations in the community, with a focus on the Riverside Metra station area and along bus-served corridors.

Previously adopted planning studies identified the need for updated zoning. The RTA will fund 100 percent of the $35,000 cost of the project and has entered into a contract with the Savoy Consulting, who will be responsible for the project.

“Riverside looks forward to partnering with the RTA to ensure our zoning code incorporates the most up to date best practices for encouraging economic development within the broader context of our historic community,” said Riverside Village President Benjamin Sells.

The RTA is supporting both projects through its Community Planning program, which offers technical assistance and funding to local governments and intergovernmental organizations to address local planning needs that intersect public transportation and land use. Through this assistance, the RTA encourages municipalities in the region to develop walkable and more sustainable communities near transit stations and along transit corridors.

Subscribe to our Newsletter

* indicates required
Type your email address here
What emails would you like to receive from the RTA
Tagged in: Community Planning | Metra | RTAMS

Related Articles

22 RTA 0922 RTA selects projects for Access to Transit program, bringing bike and pedestrian improvements throughout the region

The RTA has selected nine new projects for its Access to Transit program, which provides funding to municipalities to complete engineering and construction f...

March 21, 2024
Rtacab RTA launches new, rider-focused Citizens Advisory Board

Following through on a key recommendation from our Transit is the Answer strategic plan, the RTA is excited to launch a newly expanded Citizens Advisory Boar...

March 21, 2024
Low line RTA’s Community Planning Call for Projects with a new Transit Station Activation pilot category aims to fund initiatives that make stations and bus stops more welcoming

Imagine stepping off the train at the end of your workday and being greeted by a local artist exhibit, or a farmers’ market with healthy food to browse and b...

March 12, 2024
2402227 RTA 01 RTA gathers riders and regional officials for Safety and Security Summit, announces Transit Station Activation grants

On February 27, the RTA joined with CTA, Metra, Pace, the City of Chicago, State of Illinois, and other municipal and social service partners to host a cross...

March 1, 2024
02 Feb TIA Anniversary Reflecting on progress one year after adoption of Transit is the Answer

February marks the one-year anniversary of the RTA Board of Directors vote to adopt Transit is the Answer, the regional transit strategic plan that serves as...

February 15, 2024
22 RTA 1518 2 Far South Halsted Corridor Study prepares for future Pace Pulse service

A new RTA Community Planning project kicked off in late 2023 as a crucial step in bringing Pace Pulse service to Chicago’s south suburbs. The Far South Halst...

January 25, 2024
RTA
CTA
Metra
Pace
Copyright © 2022 Regional Transportation Authority. All Rights Reserved.